On the field: The Brewers have begun throwing live batting practice, with hitters standing in against pitchers. Hiram Burgos got things going Monday, and on Tuesday Yovani Gallardo, Marco Estrada and Mike Fiers all took turns. The schedule is being accelerated somewhat this year in order to get players participating in the World Baseball Classic better prepared earlier. Twelve more pitchers will throw Wednesday, manager Ron Roenicke said - if the weather cooperates. The forecast is for rain, wind and chilly conditions.

Cactus juice: Roenicke said Gallardo is in line to pitch in the intrasquad scrimmage Friday in Maryvale, and that Estrada also might get some work. He wouldn't divulge who will start the following day in the exhibition opener, but "it's one of the guys who's going to be considered as one of our starters."

Weather: 72 degrees and fair.

Scoreboard: The Brewers' first exhibition game is Saturday against Oakland at Maryvale Baseball Park.

Countdown: 40 days to the season opener April 1 against Colorado at Miller Park.

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